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Alarming Rise of Antibiotic Resistance in Europe

EU - Antibiotic resistance has increased in the past years to the point that now constitutes a serious risk to public health.

The lack of effectiveness of existing antibiotics combined with the lack of new antibiotic treatments raises serious concerns and demands a joint response.

In this context, primary prescribers play a crucial role.

With seven simple recommendations, the European health professionals raise awareness to primary care prescribers on the prudent and responsible use of antibiotics.

Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE) President, Dr Christophe Buhot, said: "Veterinarians together with the other health professions are the gatekeepers of the public health. This is why it is so important to ensure that all of us – doctors, dentists and veterinarians - are equally committed to this goal and promote the same recommendations."

President of the Standing Committee of European Doctors (CPME), Dr Katrín Fjeldsted, commented: "It is crucial that healthcare professionals join forces to combat antimicrobial resistance. The joint recommendations issued today are part of this collaborative exercise and we will continue to closely work together to promote prudent use of antibiotics."

Dr Wolfgang Doneus, President of the Council of European Dentists (CED) added: "Antibiotics need to be responsibly prescribed, correctly used and the outcomes monitored.We are counting on our colleagues to help in making sure that antibiotics stay effective and to discuss the risks of self-medication with our patients."